There are a lot of little novellas in this series. In some of the books in the series, there is a novella included at the end. But for the most part, they seemed like bonus chapters. This is the first time I’ve read one of the full-length stories where I felt I missed something by skipping a novella. Mostly, this story is about Asha and Hemalo, but it’s also about Asha and Claire becoming friends. I looked back when I first realized there are chapters with Claire’s perspective and realized I didn’t read her story, it was Ice Planet Holiday which is technically book 4.75. I still enjoyed this story, but wish I knew what had happened previously with Claire, Ereven, and Bek. You can bet I’ll be going back to read that one soon.

Anyway, onto this book. It is a marriage in trouble story, Asha and Hemalo having lost a child before the humans landed on their planet. The two were also not ever close before they resonated and didn’t really know how to communicate well with each other. Asha thought Hemalo disliked her and was even disgusted by her. Hemalo thought Asha was disappointed that he was the one she resonated with. There is a lot of yearning in this book, along with many misunderstandings. Asha is always trying to guard her heart and will quickly turn to sharp words if she thinks she is being attacked, pushed away, or harshly judged. Hemalo is a man of few words and feels arguing with Asha just upsets her more so he gives her space…space she does not want or need.

When it comes to that side story with Claire, I’m not sure if it will come into play later because I’m not sure of its purpose. I love the friendship she forges with Asha, which helped Asha to finally grieve properly for her lost baby. But the other stuff in Claire’s story makes me think there was some set-up for future stories.

This was an emotional roller coaster, so be warned. But Asha and Hemalo get their HEA and it’s wonderful.